Ever wondered where faith meets community in Cali? The Parroquia Divino Salvador stands as a testament to both. Let me tell you its story.
The Parroquia Divino Salvador is more than just a church. It is a vibrant hub located between the Caldas and El Refugio neighborhoods. Its address is Calle 3ra 66B-73. You can almost feel the warmth and welcome as you approach its doors.
Founded on December 10 1961 the church started with very little. There was no grand temple at first. The community faced economic challenges and lacked a dedicated building. They even had to negotiate with city authorities to build on public service land.
An interesting offer came from Hernán Martínez. He proposed funding the church’s construction. But there was a condition. He and his aunt wanted to be buried in a private crypt beneath the church. This crypt would be exclusively for their family. The Bishop accepted these unusual terms and construction began. Lothar Moschner served as the architect. An earlier offer from Doctor Darío Mejía to create the plans for free was declined.
Father Roberto Weber secured support from the organization Adveniat. This helped build a health center next to the church.
The Salvatorian community has been active here since December 10 1956. Father German Fessler rented a house in Miraflores. He provided religious services to the Caldas neighborhood. He also served as chaplain at Colegio Champagnat and taught at Colegio Alemán. From October 1957 until December 1960 the Salvatorians managed the Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Coromoto.
Today the Parroquia Divino Salvador offers daily Mass. Services are held at 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM Monday through Saturday. On Sundays you can attend services at 7:00 AM 10:00 AM 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM. The priests include Pablo Sexto Arrieta Carlos Andrés Imbachí Alberto Iván Valencia Guillermo Mesa and Hugo Jaramillo.
The church has received positive feedback from its members. People appreciate the improved facilities. They also value the priests’ clear and concise delivery of the Eucharist. The spacious and cool interior creates a pleasant environment. Some have suggested adding confessionals and a schedule for confessions.
The Parroquia Divino Salvador is open for visits at specific times. On Mondays visit between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM or 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM. Tuesday through Saturday the hours are 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Sundays are 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
So as you stand here remember the Parroquia Divino Salvador. It embodies faith perseverance and community spirit. It began humbly and grew into a cherished place of worship. It continues to be a spiritual home for many in Cali.